Skopje, 10 February 2026 (MIA) – SDSM's parliamentary group and coalition resubmitted on Tuesday a draft law amending the Law on Minimum Wage, after Parliament Speaker Afrim Gashi previously returned due to technical shortcomings.

SDSM leader and MP Venko Filipche told a press conference at the Parliament on Tuesday the party expects the bill to be added to the agenda this month. He said the coming period will show whether the return procedure was done with the aim of postponing its consideration. 

Filipche said SDSM completely backs the demands of the Federation of Trade Unions of Macedonia (SSM) for EUR 600 minimum wage, noting that workers deserve a dignified life, especially in conditions when the consumer basket exceeds Mden 65,000. He pointed to the budget items of travel expenses and representation as possible sources of funds. 

He reiterated that, according to him, the state could subsidize contributions for increased wages in the private sector so that the liquidity of companies is not disrupted.

Filipche criticized the government for its announcements to purchase a new government aircraft, saying it was wastefulness amid citizens' protests for higher wages.  

The SDSM parliamentary group will also submit amendments to the Law on Administrative Servants. According to Filipche, the amendments that the government made previously have led to a 30 percent reduction in the salaries of civil servants in the Parliament, which, he noted, compromises the independence of the legislative house. He called for support from all MPs to restore the previous level of income.

Photo: MIA archive